Is Fort Myers a Good Place to Live?
In many ways, the city of Fort Myers remains a hidden gem in a state full of popular and well-known spots. Still, the incredible growth of recent years tells the tale of what it does have: an affordable cost of living, a beautiful natural environment and climate, a strong job market, and so much more. But like any big move, future residents of Fort Myers may have some questions about what life is like in the Southwest Florida area. Read on for a breakdown of the most important things to know for those thinking about moving to Fort Myers, Florida.
10 Reasons to Love Living in Fort Myers
- Beautiful Beaches: Fort Myers boasts stunning beaches with soft white sand and clear blue waters.
- Pleasant Climate: Enjoy warm, sunny weather year-round.
- Abundant Recreational Activities: A wide range of recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, and golfing.
- Cultural Attractions: Fort Myers is home art galleries, theaters, museums, and historical sites like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
- Lush Parks and Nature Preserves: Explore the many parks, nature preserves, and botanical gardens that showcase Florida’s unique flora and fauna.
- Growing Food Scene: Discover a diverse and growing variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to international cuisines.
- Vibrant Downtown: Downtown Fort Myers features a lively atmosphere with charming shops, restaurants, and a bustling nightlife.
- Sports and Fitness: The area supports an active lifestyle with numerous gyms, fitness centers, sports leagues, and events like marathons and triathlons.
- Proximity to Other Destinations: Fort Myers’ central location provides easy access to nearby attractions like Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, and the Everglades.
- Community Events and Festivals: Fort Myers hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community and providing entertainment for all ages.
Cost of Living in Fort Myers
Depending on where future residents are coming from, Fort Myers might seem pricey or affordable—it’s all relative. But the cost of living in Fort Myers is broadly in line with the national average for cost of living and somewhat below the average for Florida. Fort Myers residents can expect to pay more than average for healthcare, partly a reflection of the higher demand due to the area’s older population. On the flip side, Fort Myers residents typically pay less for transportation and housing. Groceries, utilities, and other miscellaneous spending are similar to the national average.
Home prices in Fort Myers generally average close to $300,000. Median rents for studio and one-bedroom Fort Myers apartments typically start around $900 per month, with two bedrooms between $1,100 and $1,200, and three and four bedrooms at $1,500 or more per month. These numbers have increased in recent years as Fort Myers has seen dramatic population growth. However, they remain more affordable than many other popular Florida cities and towns. As with many coastal areas, prices increase closer to the Gulf and its waterfront homes, while eastern inland areas offer lower-cost homes. Local sales taxes are relatively low, though property taxes are among the highest in the state.
